A wedding requires careful planning, including all the tiny details, especially when it comes to the design of your wedding invitation. The invitation is more than the exchange of information: it frames your special day in style, makes the first impression on your visitors, and reflects your personality.
This is why proper wedding invitation etiquette matters. InviteFlare – trusted for free wedding invitation templates – brings a quick guide to help you master the art of digital wedding invitation. Let’s get started!
1. Send Invitations on Time
Wedding invitation cards are best sent 6–8 weeks before the wedding. For destination weddings, dispatch at least 3–4 months ahead so guests have time to make travel plans. Super important this is!
2. Select Suitable Design
Your invitation will give people an idea of your wedding theme, whether it is formal, rustic, beachy, or modern. Don’t use a random wedding template!
3. Use Full Names
Ensure complete names are used on the invitations. For formal weddings, include first, middle, and last names. Avoid nicknames unless the event is casual, which marraige rarely is.
4. Include Both Families (Where Appropriate)
Traditionally, both sets of parents are named on the wedding invitation. In modern usage, there is flexibility: you may mention either side, both, or none.
5. Use Proper Titles
Write formal address titles such as Mr., Mrs., or Dr. on envelopes. For unmarried couples living together, indicate both names on the same line. This is the right etiquette!
6. Avoid Abbreviations
Write out words such as Street, Boulevard, and Avenue fully. Spell out states rather than abbreviating them.
7. Include Clear RSVP Instructions
Your RSVP card should clearly indicate the deadline (3–4 weeks before the wedding). Make it convenient with pre-stamped reply cards or online RSVP options.
8. Mention Dress Code
If a dress code is required, indicate it at the bottom of the invitation or on a details card. Examples: Black Tie, Semi-Formal, or Casual Attire.
9. Do Not Include Registry on the Invitation
Avoid placing gift registry information on the invitation, as this is considered inappropriate etiquette.
10. Pay Attention to Wording
Use conventional phrases. For example, “request the honor of your presence” for church weddings, and “request the pleasure of your company” for non-church weddings.
11. Double-Check Details
Recheck names, dates, times, and locations. Even a minor typo can cause confusion.
12. Keep Invitations Simple
Include only key information on the main card. Use additional cards or wedding websites for directions, accommodations, or extra details.
13. Use Quality Paper
Invest in heavy or textured cardstock. Platforms like Inviteflare.com offer premium digital options for a lasting impression.
14. Consider Calligraphy or Elegant Fonts
Choose a font that matches the mood of your wedding: script fonts for formal, minimalistic fonts for modern.
15. Send One Invitation per Household
Do not send separate invitations to people living together. Couples and families can share one invite.
16. Specify Children Policy
For adults-only weddings, clearly indicate that children are not invited.
17. Plus-Ones
Unless specified, guests should not assume they can bring a date. Indicate additional guests on the RSVP or envelope.
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18. Reception Details
If the reception is at a different venue, include a separate details card with the date, location, and type of event.
19. Respect Cultural/Religious Practices
Certain cultures have traditional invitations. Respect customs in wording, format, and name arrangements.
20.Be flexible
Everything won’t go as planned. Be prepared for the unplanned and focus on employing the special day.
Our Wedding Invitation Etiquette Guide Ends Here
Following proper wedding invitation etiquette ensures your guests receive clear, respectful, and stylish invites. From scheduling and wording to labeling and layout, these 30 tips guide you through every detail.
Did we miss anything? Tell Inviteflare in the comments and we will consider adding it in our list!
